Door Brake question

[CapstoneBC]

Quick question here - is the door brake also responsible for the door not staying OPEN? My drivers side is continuingly closing on me (the passenger does not). I know the brake is there to prevent the door opening all the way, but does it also act to stay somewhat open?

 

Thanks.

[visionaut]

Yep.

[Mike Self]

If you have an original door brake, I'll bet the big steel horseshoe that is supposed to hold the door open (and never did a very good job) is lying broken in the door's bottom inside panel.  

 

BMW makes a much improved one that actually holds the door open (in two different positions!) but it doesn't look like the original.  If you want originality, there's someone on the FAQ that makes an improved brake that looks original--they work great (mine have been in for 15 or so years and work just fine).

 

Also examine closely the bracket that the brake fastens to on the door.  They can come loose and cause even more problems.  Again, someone on the FAQ makes a very clever repair kit allowing repair without welding.  

 

mike

[VWScott]

I just went through this. Yes the door brakes keep the door open. Both mine were shot when I bought the car. Both fixed now. The originals were both broken in bits. I bought the MB version and modified it fit my car. Requires cut and weld but were way cheaper than buying the BMW part and work perfectly. I shortened the arm quite a bit so the door dont swing open so wide and I added rubber feet to the mount so there is a little give at full extension.